Strengthening the preventive and nursing measures of avian influenza cases in sea lions

The day before we reported a conversation with a manager of the Argentinian Animals Foundation Juan LorenzaniHe remained on the South Breakwater from the early hours of Friday until late Thursday night, personally monitoring the behavior of the sea lions.

Lorenzani pointed out i can fish The situation is alarming because of the high number of dead sea lions found, with an average of around 25 dead on Friday afternoon in several areas where they lived (the small shoulder, the South Breakwater and the beach at the naval base). silver).

From careful observation of the specimens we can learn how erratic their mannerisms are, with their heads thrown back and a sense of twitching, attitudes incompatible with the habits of the species.

The National Food Hygiene and Quality Service confirmed the presence of the virus that causes so-called bird flu in dead specimens found in the neighboring town of Quequén, while studies of specimens living in Quequén showed that Mar was still Waiting for the silver medal.

Organizations based in Puerto del Plata have initiated a protocol for surveillance and care of dead sea lions found in their jurisdiction and the possibility that they may be transmissions of the aforementioned flu.

The positive cases in these destinations have been confirmed by SENASA, whose laboratories have sent samples of dead animals in different areas in the Escollera Sur area, where the species is most common, and on the Mar del Plata Riviera.

In light of this situation, a working group was formed, including technicians and professionals from Senasa, the Union of Regional Ports of Mar del Plata, the Argentine Naval Department, the Eighth Health District, the Civil Defense, the National University of Mar del Plata and the Argentine Fund for Animals Action guidelines will be agreed to allow progressive tracking of the evolution of species communities in and around the South Breakwater.

The situation set off alarm last week, for which an action plan was implemented that included explicit advice for people not to approach these or other marine mammals present on these beaches, as Lorenzani noted Thursday. i can fish.

Analysis of samples taken from the remains of dead animals by experts from public institutions has found the presence of the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5 virus.

The first positive cases correspond to the investigations carried out in Port Kecan and the Necochea coast, and the results of a similar study are awaited on other samples sent to the SENASA laboratory corresponding to the dead sea lions of the Mar del Plata beach.

Under current protocols, in addition to taking samples of dead animals found in the jurisdiction, final disposal of their remains has begun.

Senasa advises against handling dead animals or animals showing suspicious symptoms.

Likewise, a reminder that high mortality, neurological, digestive, and/or respiratory symptoms of a susceptible species are found in wild birds or in commercial or backyard poultry must be notified.

SENASA is advised to notify SENASA on 11 5700 5704 due to the discovery of dead, dying or symptomatic marine animals.

Communication can also be enabled through the mobile device application “Senasa Notifications” or you can email to notificaciones@senasa.gob.ar

related